Biophilia, the future of architecture | Matthias Olt | TEDxSeattle

NOTE FROM TED: This talk only represents the speaker's personal views and understanding of design and health. We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/t...
In this 2020 TEDxSeattle talk, learn about new scientific discoveries in biophilia and why architect Matthias Olt believes that designing spaces where humans connect with nature promotes healing for people and the environment.
Olt describes the concept of biophilia and provides scientific evidence that incorporating nature-inspired, sinuous forms and natural materials into our built environments positively affect human physiology and psychology. Explaining the principles of biophilic design and how he applies them, Olt makes the case that inspiring architecture improves our performance, well-being, and connectedness.
2:42 - Study showing positive physiological and psychological responses of test-taking on wood vs. plastic laminate surfaces
4:54 - Olt discusses growing up in West Germany and visiting East Germany in the 1970s and 1980s, where the physical environment was often monotonous and constrained by industry
9:06 - Olt outlines principles of biophilia and application to design
More to explore:
Learn more about Olt and his work at bharchitects.com/en/profile/o...
Learn more about Olt’s previous work at architecturematthi.wixsite.co...
See the originator of the term “Biophilia,” E.O. Wilson, accept his 2007 TED Prize:
www.ted.com/talks/e_o_wilson_...
Watch architect Amanda Sturgeon’s TEDMED Talk “Using biophilic design to heal body, mind, and soul”:
• Using biophilic design...
View the TEDxGuelphU Talk, “The Biophilic World” by Owen Bjorgant, founder of the non-profit, The Biophilic World:
• The Biophilic World | ...
See architect Michael Pawlyn’s TED Talk “Using nature's genius in architecture”:
www.ted.com/talks/michael_paw... Matthias Olt has left an impressive mark across the world as a talented designer and architect. His distinct use of softly swooping waves or crisp clean lines can be found on culturally significant and sustainably designed buildings across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America.
Olt, who’s originally from Frankfurt, Germany, has worked in the industry for more than 26 years. He delivers expert design in high-rise, mixed-use corporate, commercial, and residential buildings that, in his own words, “create sculptural lightness that inspire ideas, promote joy, and elevate sustainable systems.” It’s in the area of sustainability where Olt truly shines.
Most recently, Olt has pitched bringing wood back into architecture in a big way. His vibrant, climate-aware designs for hybrid builds that include steel or carbon fiber wrapped with wood and cased in cement are a nod to both primitive and forward-thinking design. In 2017, Matthias was the recipient of an AIA Seattle Honors Award for his innovative design of a 39-story Conceptual Mass Timber Tower in Seattle.
Olt is a registered architect and received the German architecture diploma from the University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt, Germany, and he also holds an undergraduate degree in chemical science. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@jomarfelisilda9679]

biophilic architecture is so underrated. i always include it in my designs but it always seems that all of my colleagues who sees my work doesnt appreciate the idea of biophilic architecture

[@gmj1636]

Isn't it fascinating, how this modern interpretation of biophilia is in perfect harmony with the ancient principles of Feng Shui? The deeper I dive into these topics the more fascinating I find them (and the more puzzled I am when seeing how little we use all this knowledge in the architecture of our everyday western surroundings).

[@steveringold9054]

What an enlightening presentation. Matthias Olt has put his finger on an essential element of our being, and on what makes us humans tick!

[@mikeakerdotcom]

This talk motivated me to put more nature into my office!

[@stylegreen7888]

Really good video to a really important topic!

[@olugbengaadegun1753]

Great lecturer!!

[@ssketchup72]

Amazing.

[@monapeters7626]

Does anyone have more info regarding the "brain activity" reference used at 10:48? Trying to find more info about the psychology professor doctor "vitanian" (??) that Olt is mentioning but to no avail... would be a huge help for writing my thesis on biophilia

[@kronfle111]

I think he talked abour the research of Ulrich and Nakamura, I hope this can help you. Best Regards

[@user-mw3rx6mg5n]

How to be an architect like him? I am pursuing my graduation in physics degree now What to do next?

[@GERTOV90]

Study architecture carrer

[@adelyaseen7677]

I need to read to read Dr.Vitanian…… can anyone help me to find it

[@dbeeks2254]

Not sure if you still need it, but I think they mean Vartanian (specifically dr. Oshin Vartanian)

[@janweyant8902]

WHen I read that Americans spend on ave. 17 hrs a day indoors, it doesn't surprise me that stress rates and chronic disease is at its highest. We need to combat this by interior designs and architectural designs focused on bringing Nature in.

[@mukeirabluetemple6950]

The contrast between his theories about biophilic design and his buildings could not be bigger. He still builds buildings like machines of steel and and glass, not reflecting any understanding what reconnecting with nature is really like.

[@jamesduff6937]

I was thinking much the same too.

[@maple-leafs13]

Because its much cheaper to build with these materials. I much rather prefer traditional European architechtecture. They are colorful and full of soul with all the ornaments.

[@adrianoyorkshire]

Not all architects are aware of such psychological research therefore, not applying this idea. I have reached out to one in the US who had no idea what I was talking about, and this because he has a KZbin channel on architecture...not mentioning his name though. Thanks.

[@zahragh8104]

World would be so better without towers i think..but..

[@sharismad]

Towers are a necessity. We have to choose between good towers or bad towers.

[@GERTOV90]

horizontal city filled the world

[@InnerWildSouk]

All biophilic design needs to be bird friendly and gentle on the natural environment in terms of energy and water use. Otherwise it is a superficial connection with nature that is being promoted. There is just way too much glass in all of these designs. These buildings are going to kill lot of birds. And that's not biophilic.

[@nickwesley3520]

It’s not the architecture of the future... it’s already contemporary, if not a platitude haha Cool stuff though!